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Time Out says

4 out of 5 stars

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4 out of 5 stars

Time Out says

4 out of 5 stars

Tim Minchin's wickedly good story of a schoolgirl genius is still irresistible

'My mummy says I'm a miracle,' lisps a pampered mini-me at a purgatorial kiddies' birthday party at the outset of this delicious, treacly-dark family show. The obnoxious ma and pa of its titular, gifted, pint-sized heroine are not, of course, quite so doting. But 'Matilda' must be making its creators, playwright Dennis Kelly and comedian-songsmith Tim Minchin, a very pair of proud parents.

Opening to rave reviews in Stratford-upon Avon before transferring to the West End in 2011 and snatching up Olivier Awards with all the alacrity of a sticky-fingered child in a sweetshop, Matthew Warchus's RSC production remains a treat. With hindsight, Kelly and Minchin's musical, born of the 1988 novel by that master of the splendidly grotesque Roald Dahl, is a little too long and, dramatically, a tad wayward. But like the curly-haired little girl in the famous nursery rhyme, when it is good, it is very, very good. And it's even better when it's horrid.

The past few months have seen some cast changes, including, alas, the departure of Bertie Carvel's tremendous Miss Trunchbull, headmistress of the dread Crunchem Hall School, former Olympic hammer-thrower and a gorgon of monumental nastiness, complete with scarily Thatcher-esque tics of purse-lipped gentility and faux concern.

David Leonard doesn't quite match the squirm-inducing, hair-raising detail of Carvel in the role, but his more butch, granite-faced version is fantastically horrible nonetheless. And if Paul Kaye as Matilda's loathsome father Mr Wormwood was so greasily repellant that just watching him made you feel you needed a scalding shower, Steve Furst has more of a wide-boyish, casual cruelty; Annette McLaughlin as his Latin-dancing wife is a leggy wonder of ripe raspiness, spite and vanity. And Haley Flaherty is winning as the kindly Miss Honey, neatly side-stepping priggishness and conveying the tremulous courage of the much-kicked underdog, with a singing voice of sweetness and power.

As for the children, they are irresistible, stomping and skipping through Peter Darling's angular choreography, thrilling young audiences and push-pulling grown-ups from tears to gasps to laughter with such relentless energy that it leaves you breathless, exhilarated and marvelling at the many ways in which Minchin, Kelly and Dahl demonstrate that growing up is a lifelong endeavour. For kids, yes, but also for the children that we all remain at heart, this is wise, wicked, glorious fun.

This review is from 2012. The cast of 'Matilda' now includes David Shannon as Miss Trunchball, Tom Edden as Mr Wormwood, Marianne Benedict as Mrs Wormwood, and Gina Beck as Miss Honey. The role of Matilda is shared by Lily-Mae Evans, Emma Moore, Kitty Peterkin and Savannah Read.

How to get cheap tickets: £5 day seats for 'Matilda' are available for young people aged 16-25 only. Arrive at the Cambridge Theatre box office well before it opens at 10am for your best chance of buying a ticket. One seat per person. In person only.

I really wasn’t fussed by this show at all. The telling of
the story itself lacks so much of the magic the book (and more so the film)
gave us and it takes ages to get the transformation od Matilda going. All in
all I found it a little dry (sorry!)

I also thought the staging and costume was quite dated, it
feels as though it might be time to revamp the Art Direction fora more modern look and feel.

Very slow first half ... Poor sceens of endless library , feel asleep . Matilda boring no expression .
Second half picked up a bit as teacher could act, a few more diff sceen changes and some story finally!!
However end was rushed not sure why, as they could of lost half of the repetitive sceens in the first half.
It would of been nice to see the teachers house at lest!!

This is an excellent adaptation of a great children's classic story by Roald Dahl. The script and musicality are beautifully crafted as is the set and directing which all combine to build the story wonderfully. The cast and acting are spot on and Miss Trunchbull could not be faulted. This is a superb show that children and adults can both enjoy.

It’s impossible not to enjoy this: it’s an all singing, all dancing, big theatre production with a fail safe story. The set is intricately designed and moves seamlessly from one scene to another. I was constantly in awe of the children who are on stage performing for a couple of hours a night. But for me, it was actually Miss Truchbull who stole the show. Played by a man, the character was just as ferocious and funny as I remembered from the book and film. If I'm fault finding, the child who played Matilda was slightly over dramatic with some of her lines.

What a fun play :) It's definitely one for all the family and yes, the story can be dark at places but what do you expect from none other than Tim Minchin and Roald Dahl?

The actors including the children are superb and complete professionals. I am sure the other reviewers will talk about them so I wont spend much time on them. For me it was more about the set, the props and the slickness of jumping from Matilda's story to her school to the front room.

The set is captivating and I loved the boxes around the stage spelling out words which then mean something as the play goes on.

Complete thumbs up. As with any theater production, the second half is always better but to me it was truly the best bit.

I haven't seen any kind of remake or reproduction of the childhood classic Matilda since I was a little girl so this was hugely anticipated on my part.

Firstly I have to applaud the child for remembering their lines at such young ages.. The stage setting was very lovely also!!

Now for the teeny tiny flaws. As children they sometimes tended to overact a part which was foreseen. The main character would also repeat her lines slightly stiffly at times too.

I also felt that the adult actors were screaming a lot and over dramatised many parts of the play. I came to the conclusion that this production was infact aimed at children... A few people left during the intermission so Im sure they will agree when I say that.

However, the second part of the show turned out to be less childish and rather fantastic !! I came away smiling and thoroughly entertained. A slight twist on the childhood classic I remember but a decent effort and the second is worth seeing!.

An adaptation that does full anarchic justice to Roald Dahl's original story. Tim Minchin's songs buzz with energy - with the odd gag that only adults will appreciate - while the young cast do a fabulous job alongside the grown-ups. I particularly liked Tom Edden as the check-suited wheeler-dealer Mr Wormwood. If you don't find yourself grinning from ear to ear at the end of this, then you're probably not a human being.

There is no shortage of cheese in this production of Matilda, but I loved it! It has a real feel-good element about it and I defy anyone to leave the theatre without a smile on their faces - yes, some jokes and scenes are obvious, but you laugh out loud anyway. The staging is impressive and cleverly done. A fun day out for the family.

It's cheesy and a bit cringe at times but Matilda certainly delivers on the feel-good factor front. The acting was faultless; Miss Trunchball stood out particularly. Matilda herself I felt lacked a little emotionally, she was quite shouty and not at all similar to the girl portrayed in the book. The way the setting adapted to each scene was done to perfection and the trickery of the magic used is executed really well. Despite enjoying the show I can't help but think that I may have liked it more when it first came to the west end.

Roald Dahl's classic tale of Matilda did not disappoint on stage. Incredibly talented young kids, amazing set design and flawless choreography. It was fun, heartwarming and impressive. Sure at times it was hard to understand exactly every word the children were singing but I just reminded myself how young they all were and that the show would be nothing without them. Miss Trunchbulll was a serious highlight of this show for me. A very enjoyable evening at the theatre with family or friends.

You can't go wrong with a Roald Dahl classic turned into a musical can you?! The theatre and scenery are fantastic and the show itself doesn't disappoint. Loved the soundtrack and all the children in it are ridiculously talented. The trunchball was brilliant. Loved this show!

Roald Dahl's classic tale of Matilda did not disappoint on stage. Incredibly talented young kids, amazing set design and flawless choreography. It was fun, heartwarming and impressive. Sure at times it was hard to understand exactly every word the children were singing but I just reminded myself how young they all were and that the show would be nothing without them. Miss Trunchbulll was a serious highlight of this show for me. A very enjoyable evening at the theatre with family or friends.

I'm not sure if it was just because we were sat literally on the back row but Matilda didn't do it for me. I found it very shouty with silly, cheesy jokes (which was probably great for the kids) and no stand out songs (in fact a week later I can't remember one).
Facilities in the upper circle were incredibly poor with only one set of loos meaning I spent the whole interval queuing and actually made it out half way through the second acts opening song! As well as mediocre songs the acting and singing were also nothing special. Although I didn't enjoy this musical as much as others the set was amazing - colourful with plenty of moving parts which helped tell the story in a unique, imaginative way.
Overall I am glad I saw it, enjoyed parts of it but would not recommend it friends or family.

Amazing performance! Although its geared to a younger audience, every minute of it is exciting. The lighting and the stage have been smartly designed; the performance is well choreographed; and the cast is fantastic. There are one or two moments that could be scary for children though, but this shouldn't one from seeing such a well done show. Highly recommend it.

Tim Minchin's adaptation of the infamous Roald Dahl book was a bit of a disappointment, there aren't many memorable songs within the show and I found some of the performances a bit screechy and shouty. One of the most memorable songs was a 'Littlte Bit Naughty'. I found it a bit difficult to understand some of the kids singing and talking during the performance.

The set is magnificent and I love the way it cleverly changes and adapts throughout. The second half was much stronger than the first, particularly as it focussed on Miss Trunchbull's character. The actor that played her was very convincing and looked just as I remembered her in the book. Other strong performances came from Miss Honey and one of the kids, I particularly liked his performance in the second half as he stands on a desk and belts out a song.

I recently saw Matilda and loved it. Being a fan of the childhood film, I was conscious that this adaptation could be aimed at children and young families. The audience indicated this, however the production couldn't have been more accessible. Matilda was incredibly mature, funny, moving and incredibly slick. Produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company, with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin, the show has many layers of complexity. The sets were also mesmerising and inspired - I would definitely recommend Matilda to all.

Absolutely brilliant!! Seriously talented kids in the production and larger than life characters to entertain all. The production as a whole was really impressive and captured the magic of the story. Definitely worth going to see!

I had waited SO LONG to get to see Matilda that I was a little worried I would be disappointed when it came to it, but I wasn't. In fact, it went beyond my expectations. The intelligence of Matilda the character is mirrored by the intelligence of the script and song writing. The music is super catchy, and in some cases genius. The song that manages to incorporate the alphabet blew my mind! It's so brilliantly made, and the girl who played Matilda during my Saturday matinee performance was sublime - what a voice for someone so small.

The choreography also was out of this world - absolutely outstanding, not one person (most of the cast are children) put a step wrong. I adore the film and slightly hoped the show would feature more of the amazing magic but as magic isn't real i'll forgive them for not making people and portraits and chocolates fly across the room. I'd urge anyone who loves musicals and performance to get themselves tickets. Thought they're a little expensive, it's a wonderful afternoon out and I adored it.

(one little niggle however is that due to it being very child friendly, there are a lot of kids in the audience loudly chomping on sweets, rustling wrappers and fidgeting. It's annoying as hell and makes you want to lock them in the chokey!)

I bought tickets to see Matilda with my Mum for her birthday, and we both absolutely loved it. While not on par with The Book of Mormon for comedy or The Lion King for the set and over all enjoyment, this is a lovely production which is definitely worth seeing. Matilda, for one, is a brilliant little actress who completely steals the show. She's on stage for pretty much every scene and has so many lines that I have no idea how she remembers them, but she does a fantastic job and brought a tear to my eye (and a full on sob from my mother) at the end of the show! Miss Trunchball is also amazing. While not as scary as the lady in the film (although I was 6 when I first saw it at the cinema so that may have something to do with it) she makes a brilliant, and very funny villain - My only complaint is with the bar, who charged us £7 for a small glass of wine in a disposable cup!

I saw Matilda this weekend just past when I took my 13 year old goddaughter to see it. I thought it was overall very good. There are a few good catchy tunes and the characters are loud, obnoxious and funny. Ms Trunchbull was hilarious and very camp (played by a man) but I must admit it wasn't quite the terrifying character I remember from the books as a kid. Mr Wormwood was fantastic though, and the kids were largely fabulous. Certainly a good show for kids and much fun to be had. You won't get bored!

I was expecting more from this musical. I think it was more childish than what it should have been. Also, the set designs were too plain - this story could easily have more impressive set designs. Finally, the songs were not the ones to remember after show...

Matilda deserves to stay on the West End for a good long time. Roald Dahl's classic tale is brought to life with unforgettable songs (When I Grow Up) and imaginative staging. The children are adorable and they truly encapsulate the British primary school experience. I loved the songs and the choreography, with a fantastic ensemble that truly seemed to be in their element. Excellent choice for a night out.

I am generally a bit weary of the mainstream musicals that draw crowds of tourists season after season - most are a good entertainment for a night, but are forgotten as soon as the curtain goes down. Matilda, however, really did exceed my expectations, not only because of the great production work and amazingly talented cast (the kids!), but also because of the magical story that will touch hearts and mids of children and adults alike!

Having heard so many glowing reports from friends on the show, we decided we had to see it. We were not let down at all. The whole family loved it. A great show, wonderful production. The cast were amazing. Our kids want to go again.

Fantastic musical. Great set and songs. Matilda was fab, as wee the rest of the children. My friends and I thoroughly enjoyed it and think it maybe one of the best musicals i have seen, Its a must for adults and kids, I can assure you that you will love it and want to go again!

I love this show. I have seen it a couple of times and have loved it every time. I am a huge fan of Tim Minchin and he has done a storming job on the show's songs. The acting, sets and songs are all brilliant. On paper a show full of children acting and singing should make a sensible person steer clear but all of the child actors are excellent. Each time I have seen it the actor playing Matilda would make Roald Dahl himself suitably proud. Without doubt though the star of the show is the actor who plays Ms Trunchball, they are hilarious and worth the ticket price all by themselves.

After years of waiting and with super high expectations, Matilda the musical did not disappoint. In fact, it excelled and is by far the most slick, smart and laugh out loud hilarious show on the West End.

Once you get over the sheer talent of kids who look like they should still be learning their times tables, Matilda is excellently choreographed, with catchy, punchy songs with clever lyrics and memorable tunes. The set is astounding and the way it is utilised, from swings that come out into the audience to lazer beams, is seamless and exciting.

Although it is a children's book, there is not one person who will not find Craig Els as Mrs Trunchbull side splitting funny yet sinister at the same time. And the best part? Matilda the Musical stays true to its British Roald Dahl roots through costumes, accents and humour, making it a true British triumph.

One of my favourite london experiences of the last few years, Matilda is a delight for kids and adults.

From the exquisitely designed stage that keeps you interested until the curtain goes up, to the precocious brats and of course the wonderful miss trunchbull - there's enough to entertain for hours.

There's no question - if you're even thinking about it then just go! If you're a group of just adults and are of average height or above, I'd recommend the first row of the upper circle as the view was fantasti (but difficult for children to see over the bar).

This has to be one of the most insightful, refreshing productions on the West End at the moment..written by an Australian no less. This is the Pixar/Disney of musicals at the moment. There is a layer of complexity and maturity that will have adults nodding (and crying) in agreement and children laughing at the antics and crossdressing. The children are often oblivious to how poignant this production is in recalling the joy of childhood and our view of adulthood from this time in our lives. Melodically you'll come out singing most of the themes, and love the staging. Take the kids, but don't let them see you love it more than them!

A fabulous
show and 5* night out. The songs are enjoyable, the set and staging are
creative, clever and captivating. All actors are just superb. I watched the
entire show with a massive grin on my face, it is immensely amusing and just
wonderful. I can only echo all the other positive reviews. And I will also be
going to see it again!

This is a brilliant, brilliant show. As other Users say, I also found myself planning the next trip to see it on the way out of the theatre. It has a dark, clever quality missing from most musicals, and yet at the same time is hugely uplifting, spirited and energetic. The staging is among the best I have seen, and the performers, especially the children, are outrageously powerful. Go and see.

This is by far the best musical I have seen. The music/score is brilliant, the performers are brilliant, the staging is brilliant, it's all brilliant! I have been once and am due to go again next month- cannot wait! My friend had seen this 8 times! Guy's that's how good this show really is :)

This is one amazing musical. I had no expectations about this as it was a recommendation from a friend when I didn't know which musical to choose to take my mum whilst she was in town. The kids were simply brilliant - I'm still amazed by how good performers they are at such a tiny age - and so was all the cast. Also a big congrats to the team that built that incredible scenario as it was one of the best ones I've seen till this date! It's really worth every penny and even worth see it again and again. And the best thing is that both kids and grown ups loved it. Oh and I still have my paper airplane as a souvenir.

I am not ashamed (well, only a tiny bit ashamed) to admit that I love musicals, and have seen a lot of them. Matilda is hands down the best show I have ever seen. It must be some combination of wit, charm and intense talent that made me feel so completely overcome by joy that I started crying. In the first scene. Both times I have been to see it. The lyrics and music and staging and direction are completely genius – children clearly love the show but I don't know a grown-up who wouldn't be delighted by it. Long may it run so that I can see it at least another five times. Incidentally, my boyfriend hates musicals. He cried, too.

I've seen this three times now with different casts and kids of various ages. It's a stone cold British classic. It's so much more subtle and beautifully put together than pretty much anything else on the West End. I took my five-year-old when it first opened and he still talks about it. I honestly think it'll be something that stays with him, even when he grows up.